Famitsu’s live blog has reported that the highly popular Monster Hunter G’s online features will require a monthly subscription in Japan. Capcom will charge 800 points for one month, 1500 for two months, and 2000 for three months. Famitsu is naming the monthly purchase a “hunting ticket”. At this time it is unknown if Monster Hunter 3 will support an online fee.
There’s no doubt in my mind that Japan would pay even more than $8 a month just to play some Monster Hunter. It’s like drugs for them. Monster Hunter G probably won’t be released outside of Japan, but if so would you pay a monthly fee considering the title was built from the ground up for defeating monsters and quests with friends online? I know I would…I think.
Monster Hunter G will be released in Japan on April 23rd, 2009 and includes a demo of Monster Hunter 3.